Giants’ Dexter Lawrence placed on injured reserve, likely ending his season.

New York Giants Face Tough Defenses Without Pro Bowl Tackle Dexter Lawrence

The New York Giants are set to face the daunting task of adjusting their defense without Pro Bowl tackle Dexter Lawrence, who dislocated his left elbow in the Thanksgiving game against the Cowboys. Lawrence, who leads the team with nine sacks, was placed on injured reserve along with rookie tight end Theo Johnson, who suffered a foot injury during the same game.

The 6-year veteran will be severely missed, acknowledged outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux, who stated that Lawrence’s absence will require each player to step up to the plate. Thibodeaux called Lawrence “our rock in the middle” and commended his leadership on and off the field.

With Lawrence out, the Giants are left with a depleted defensive line, as Rakeem Nunez-Roches suffered a stinger and D.J. Davidson injured his shoulder. Rookie Elijah Chatman and second-year player Jordon Riley were the only healthy interior defenders available at the end of the game.

The Giants signed defensive tackle Cory Durden off the Los Angeles Rams’ practice squad to fill the void. Lawrence has been double-teamed most of the season, and his absence will likely allow opposing offenses to alter their schemes.

As a result, the Giants are unlikely to bring Lawrence back after he spends four weeks on injured reserve. This marks the third time a Giants captain has been forced to miss the remainder of the season, following left tackle Andrew Thomas and quarterback Daniel Jones. With veterans Daniel Bellinger and Chris Manhertz set to handle the tight end position, the Giants are bracing for a tough road ahead without one of their key players.